Key Questions and Issues the Light Brigade Helps Clients Explore
  1. What are the all-in costs of the complete solutions being offered? Are there any hidden costs?
  2. Does the vendor have sufficient resources on hand to deliver quality on time and on budget?
  3. What should be covered when putting together an RFP (Request For Proposal)?
  4. Is the vendor planning to assign a capable team?
  5. Will the promised solution be compatible with legacy systems?
  6. Will the system improve work flow? Will it make it simpler?
  7. Will the system provide needed reports?
  8. Which models/tools/solutions are most appropriate for the client institution?
  9. Is a given solution of satisfactory quality?
  10. Which needs will the chosen solution not address? i.e., which gaps may remain post-implementation?
  11. What training will client's staff require for self-sufficiency?
  12. How often will solutions be re-calibrated, validated, or upgraded by the vendor to newer versions and platforms?
  13. What support will the client receive and at what cost?
  14. Will the vendor be able to live up to promises?
  15. Will a particular solution provider be around long-term?
  16. What is the true state of development of a given solution? Is the client being shown ‘vapor-ware?’
  17. Is a vendor providing 'spin' or substance?
  18. Is the client equipped to undertake sufficient comparison of competing solutions?
  19. What are some useful contractual terms to request?